Baku: An international forum themed “Facing a New World Order” was held at ADA University to discuss global development and changes, strengthen international cooperation, and examine Azerbaijan’s role in the new world order. In his speech at the forum, President Ilham Aliyev addressed several key issues and delivered significant messages.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev highlighted Azerbaijan’s readiness to cooperate with Armenia in the event of a peace agreement, emphasizing a gradual approach to building trust between the two nations. He noted that while an immediate friendship with Armenia is unrealistic, small steps towards confidence-building measures could be initiated. Aliyev mentioned the potential for exchanges of visits between journalists and intellectuals and cooperation on transboundary river issues as practical steps for reducing mistrust.
Matin Mammadli, Senior Advisor of the Center of Analysis of International Relations, stated that a peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia would form the basis for the gradual normalization of relations. He emphasized that while the normalization process is complex, initial cooperation in common areas could establish an atmosphere of trust.
President Aliyev also addressed Azerbaijan’s mediating role between Trkiye and Israel, citing Azerbaijan’s friendly relations with both countries. He indicated Azerbaijan’s quiet and active mediation efforts to ease tensions between Trkiye and Israel, drawing on previous successful reconciliation efforts facilitated by Azerbaijan.
Mammadli noted Azerbaijan’s peacekeeping mission and its efforts to ensure that relations between allied and partner countries remain stable. He emphasized Azerbaijan’s role as a stabilizing force in the region and its commitment to peace, cooperation, and development.
In his critique of the Biden-Blinken administration, President Aliyev described the period as one of crisis in US-Azerbaijan relations, attributing it to an anti-Azerbaijani policy from Washington. He contrasted this with a more constructive relationship during the Republican administration and expressed hope for improved relations under a potential future Trump administration.
Mammadli echoed these sentiments, attributing the strained relations to the Biden administration’s Armenia-centered policy and biased stance towards Azerbaijan. He expressed optimism for a more balanced approach from a future Trump administration, based on positive experiences during Trump’s first term.
Discussing the Russia-Ukraine conflict, President Aliyev expressed skepticism about a near-term peace, citing irreconcilable positions on territorial issues. He reiterated Azerbaijan’s support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty but noted that sustained peace would require one party to prevail.
The political analyst reiterated Azerbaijan’s stance on the conflict, emphasizing the importance of resolving territorial disputes for achieving long-lasting peace. He acknowledged the challenges in achieving a ceasefire and the necessity of dialogue and compromise.
Lastly, President Aliyev addressed Azerbaijan’s suspended relations with the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) due to perceived discrimination and injustice. He stated that Azerbaijan no longer recognizes the decisions of European institutions, viewing their activities as inadequate and ineffective.
The political analyst supported Azerbaijan’s position, highlighting the biased and politically motivated actions of the Council of Europe. He noted that Azerbaijan’s foreign policy reflects an adequate response to the attitudes of international organizations and individual countries.
In conclusion, President Aliyev’s speech at the ADA University forum provided insights into Azerbaijan’s perspectives on regional and global issues, offering a clear analysis of the country’s foreign policy priorities and challenges.